Citizen Science Programs

Watching birds is more popular than ever! Tens of thousands of Canadians share their energy, skill, and bird observations through Bird Studies Canada's bird surveys. These "Citizen Scientists" provide a tremendous service by volunteering their time to track the health of bird populations.

Research and Conservation

Using data from our targeted research initiatives and Citizen Science programs, and in collaboration with conservation partners, our scientists monitor bird population trends, investigate declines, and recommend actions to protect the health of ecosystems we all depend on.

Help Us Conserve Canada’s Birds

You can play an important role in conserving Canada's wild birds! Bird Studies Canada supporters provide charitable donations as well as making
valuable Citizen Science contributions. Our nationwide programs are focused on the highest-priority conservation needs for birds.

Project FeederWatch

Project FeederWatch Needs Your Help!

At regular intervals from November to April, thousands of FeederWatchers count the kinds and numbers of birds at their
feeders, then submit their observations to us. This information
helps scientists study winter bird populations.

Project FeederWatch participants receive a full-colour bird poster
and calendar, a FeederWatch Handbook and Instruction Book, access to
the data entry portion of the FeederWatch website, and the chance to
contribute to a continent-wide bird research project.

Project FeederWatch is a joint program of Bird Studies Canada and
the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. In Canada, you must be a member of
Bird Studies Canada (BSC) to participate. BSC membership benefits
include a subscription to our MonthlyLatest News e-newsletter, four issues a year of
BirdWatch Canada magazine, free participation in any of our
volunteer programs, and a charitable tax receipt for the full amount
of your membership.